New Recommendations for Vitamin D

Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***.

Postmenopausal women may be wise to heed some health tips coming from across the Atlantic. The European Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS) has released new recommendations on the role of vitamin D in this specific group of people. And since this nutrient is the biggest in the disease-prevention spectrum, let’s take a close look here.

Vitamin-D deficiency is quite common and may affect up to 70% of adults. It is classified as a public health issue, because it can contribute to a long list of diseases. For postmenopausal women, osteoporosis is a key one. Awareness of vitamin D’s importance has risen greatly in the past decade, as it has been the subject of a litany of health breakthroughs. But still, the number of adults who don’t get enough of this nutrient — especially in winter in northern latitudes — is too high.

The new recommendations are all about preventing osteoporosis. This common disease in postmenopausal women can lead to very dangerous bone fractures. We have known for some time that low levels of vitamin D can contribute to its development. But evidence has been mounting that vitamin-D deficiency is linked with many other medical conditions relevant to aging women. These include heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, infections, and neurodegenerative disease.

As most of us are aware, the major natural source of vitamin D is exposure to sunlight on the skin. Also, we can get small amounts from animal-based foods such as fatty fish, eggs, and milk. Levels of vitamin D are lower in those with poor sun exposure and in the winter. Plus, obesity, malabsorption syndromes, and certain medications (i.e. anticonvulsants, antiretrovirals) can also lower vitamin D levels.

The recommendations go like this… Get regular sunlight exposure (without sunscreens) for 15 minutes, three to four times a week. Aim for the middle of the day. Vitamin-D supplements are recommended for those who cannot obtain the required quantity through sun exposure and diet. Overall, the recommendations are 600 IU/day for women, increasing to 800 IU/day for women over 71.

Doctors Health Press has long held that aiming for 1,000 IU/day is a very sound nutritional decision. (IU stands for international units.)

ABOUT DOCTORS HEALTH PRESS

CONNECT WITH US

Get connected, help others, ask questions, express yourself.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be considered a substitute for medical care from your doctor. On any matter relating to your health or well-being—and prior to undertaking any health-related activity—consult an appropriate health professional. The opinions herein are exactly that, they are the opinions of the author. Doctors Health Press and its employees are not responsible for medically unsupervised activities that could be harmful to your health. Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. All of the Doctors Health Press publications come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your newsletter, you can simply cancel your subscription and receive a pro-rated refund on all undelivered issues. For our books and special reports, we will give you a full refund of your purchase price within 30 days of your order. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.

Disclaimer: The information contained herein is for information purposes only and is not to be construed as a diagnosis, treatment, preventive, or cure for any disease, disorder, or abnormal physical state, nor should it be considered a substitute for medical care from your doctor. On any matter relating to your health or well-being—and prior to undertaking any health-related activity—consult an appropriate health professional. The opinions herein are exactly that, they are the opinions of the author. Doctors Health Press and its employees are not responsible for medically unsupervised activities that could be harmful to your health. Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***. All of the Doctors Health Press publications come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your newsletter, you can simply cancel your subscription and receive a pro-rated refund on all undelivered issues. For our books and special reports, we will give you a full refund of your purchase price within 30 days of your order. We pride ourselves on excellent customer service.